Fertilizer consumption (% of fertilizer production)



Countries By Fertilizer consumption (% of fertilizer production)



Key points



Official Definition of Fertilizer consumption (% of fertilizer production)

Fertilizer consumption measures the quantity of plant nutrients used per unit of arable land. Fertilizer products cover nitrogenous, potash, and phosphate fertilizers (including ground rock phosphate). Traditional nutrients--animal and plant manures--are not included. For the purpose of data dissemination, FAO has adopted the concept of a calendar year (January to December). Some countries compile fertilizer data on a calendar year basis, while others are on a split-year basis.



Importance

Fertilizer consumption (% of fertilizer production) is a crucial macroeconomic statistic for a country as it directly impacts agricultural productivity, food security, and overall economic development.

When this statistic is low, it may indicate inefficiencies in the agricultural sector, leading to lower crop yields, reduced food production, and potential food shortages. Countries with low fertilizer consumption may struggle to feed their populations, leading to increased dependency on food imports, higher food prices, and potential social unrest.

On the other hand, a high value of fertilizer consumption (% of fertilizer production) signifies a more efficient use of resources in agriculture. Increased fertilizer usage can boost crop yields, improve food security, and contribute to economic growth. Countries with high fertilizer consumption are more likely to have surplus food production for export, which can enhance trade balances and overall economic stability.



Top 10 Countries by Fertilizer consumption (% of fertilizer production)

Bottom 10 Countries by Fertilizer consumption (% of fertilizer production)



Regions

Europe

When analyzing the fertilizer consumption (% of fertilizer production) statistic for the selected countries, it is evident that there is a wide range of values indicating varying agricultural practices and levels of industrialization. Countries like Estonia, Czech Republic, and Serbia show significantly high fertilizer consumption relative to their production, possibly reflecting intensive agricultural practices. On the other hand, countries like Belarus and the Russian Federation have lower values, indicating potential inefficiencies in their agricultural sectors. High fertilizer consumption can lead to increased crop yields but also environmental concerns like water pollution. Lower consumption may suggest underutilization of agricultural potential. Each country must balance the benefits of high fertilizer use with the associated environmental and economic costs for sustainable development.

Far East: East Asia, SE Asia, Australia

Among the selected countries, Myanmar stands out with the highest fertilizer consumption at 819.28%. This signifies a heavy reliance on fertilizers to support agricultural productivity. Thailand follows closely with a consumption rate of 1934.51%, indicating a strong emphasis on intensive farming practices. Vietnam and Philippines also demonstrate relatively high consumption rates, reflecting a focus on enhancing agricultural yields. Conversely, China, with a consumption rate of 87.82%, and South Korea, at 51.86%, show more conservative fertilizer usage, possibly due to advanced agricultural technologies. Each country's approach to fertilizer consumption influences its agricultural output and self-sustainability, but excessive reliance may lead to environmental degradation and sustainability challenges.

ASEAN

Among the selected countries, Thailand stands out with the highest fertilizer consumption at 1934.51%, indicating a substantial use of plant nutrients per unit of arable land. Myanmar follows with a significantly high consumption rate of 819.28%. The Philippines and Vietnam have moderate consumption rates, while Indonesia and Malaysia show relatively lower consumption percentages. This disparity reflects varying agricultural practices and economic conditions, with Thailand likely benefiting from high crop yields but facing potential environmental challenges from excessive fertilizer use. In contrast, Indonesia and Malaysia may enjoy more sustainable agricultural practices but could lag in yield productivity. Overall, these consumption rates impact each country's agricultural development, with potential consequences for food security, environmental sustainability, and economic resilience.

Latin America

Each country's fertilizer consumption (% of fertilizer production) reflects its approach to agricultural development. Cuba stands out with an unusually high value, indicating heavy reliance on fertilizers. This may lead to high agricultural output but poses environmental risks. Brazil follows with a significant percentage, showcasing its advanced agriculture sector. Colombia and Argentina maintain relatively high levels, indicating robust agricultural practices. Bolivia, Chile, Mexico, and Venezuela have lower values, possibly indicating less intensive farming or alternative agricultural methods. The varying levels of fertilizer consumption among these countries suggest different stages of agricultural development, with implications for food security, environmental sustainability, and economic growth.

Middle East

Analysis of Fertilizer Consumption (% of fertilizer production) in Selected Countries:



Rivals

Anglosphere v BRICS

When examining the fertilizer consumption (% of fertilizer production) statistic for the selected countries, some interesting comparisons emerge. New Zealand has the highest consumption percentage at 318.80%, followed closely by South Africa at 338.43% and the United Kingdom at 341.83%. In contrast, Canada and the Russian Federation have notably lower consumption percentages at 28.81% and 12.37% respectively. High consumption rates, like those of the United Kingdom and New Zealand, may indicate intensive agricultural practices but could lead to environmental concerns and dependency on imported fertilizers. Conversely, lower rates such as in Canada and Russia may point to more sustainable farming methods but could potentially limit agricultural yields and exports. The impact of this statistic on a country's development lies in its agricultural productivity, environmental sustainability, and trade competitiveness.

Russia v Ukraine

Analysis of Fertilizer Consumption (% of fertilizer production) in Selected Countries:

Israel v Iran

Iran consumes around 59% of the fertilizer it produces, indicating a strong reliance on fertilizers for agricultural productivity. In contrast, Israel consumes only about 4% of its fertilizer production, suggesting a more efficient use of fertilizers or potentially a greater emphasis on organic farming methods. Iran’s higher consumption can boost agricultural yield but may also lead to environmental concerns like soil degradation. On the other hand, Israel’s efficient usage reflects sustainability but could limit maximum yield potential. This statistic highlights Iran's heavy investment in agriculture for national food security but also indicates a need for sustainable practices. For Israel, it showcases a more targeted and potentially advanced approach to agricultural productivity.

Saudi Arabia v Iran

Iran has a high fertilizer consumption relative to production at 58.69%, indicating intensive use of plant nutrients for agriculture which can boost crop yields but may also pose environmental challenges if not managed sustainably. In contrast, Saudi Arabia's fertilizer consumption is lower at 5.64%, suggesting a less intensive agricultural approach which may indicate a focus on water conservation strategies given the country's arid climate. Iran's high consumption can lead to increased agricultural output but also greater pressure on natural resources and potential environmental degradation, while Saudi Arabia's lower consumption may reflect a more cautious approach towards resource utilization and a focus on efficient farming practices to ensure long-term sustainability.

India v Pakistan

India has a notably high fertilizer consumption percentage of 176.04%, indicating that it utilizes more nutrients compared to its production. This could be due to the significant agricultural sector in India, where fertilizers play a crucial role in enhancing crop yields. On the other hand, Pakistan has a percentage of 121.15%, showing a similar reliance on fertilizers but to a slightly lesser extent. India's high consumption may lead to increased agricultural productivity but could also strain resources and impact the environment negatively. In contrast, Pakistan's lower consumption may imply a more sustainable approach but potentially limit its agricultural output. Overall, both countries' dependency on fertilizers underscores the importance of efficient agricultural policies and sustainable practices for long-term development.

Turkey v Greece

In terms of Fertilizer consumption (% of fertilizer production), Greece stands out with a high rate of 254.82%, indicating a significant reliance on fertilizers to support agriculture. On the other hand, Turkey has a lower rate of 125.06%, suggesting a more conservative use of fertilizers in relation to its production. Greece's high consumption may boost agricultural yields but could lead to environmental issues like soil degradation. Conversely, Turkey's lower consumption may indicate efficient agricultural practices but could limit potential yield growth. This statistic highlights the differing agricultural strategies and environmental considerations between Greece and Turkey, impacting their agricultural development and sustainability.

China v Japan

China, People's Republic of, has a fertilizer consumption rate of 87.82% of fertilizer production, indicating efficient utilization of fertilizers for agricultural purposes. On the other hand, Japan exceeds its fertilizer production by consuming 125.11%, possibly relying on imports to meet its agricultural needs. China benefits from self-sufficiency but may face environmental challenges due to intensive fertilizer use. Japan's high consumption could signify advanced agricultural practices but also dependency on external sources, impacting its agricultural security. This statistic suggests that China is more self-reliant, while Japan may need to diversify its sources to ensure stability in agricultural production.



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